MUHLENBERG TWP., Pa. (WPVI) — Dozens of train enthusiasts gathering in Berks County to catch a glimpse of a historic locomotive were overcome by the extreme heat Thursday as temperatures soared across the region.<\/p>\n
Chopper 6 was overhead at Reading Outer Station along Pottsville Pike in Muhlenberg Township, where authorities say first responders treated more than 100 people for heat-related injuries.<\/p>\n
“Multiple people began collapsing from what appeared to be mostly heat-related medical episodes. Infants several months old to the elderly began to experience heat-related symptoms. On scene medical personnel immediately became overwhelmed with the number of patients,” said Muhlenberg Township Police Chief Randall Hoover.<\/p>\n
One person went into cardiac arrest and was revived at the scene, officials said.<\/p>\n
According to Hoover, 35 people needed to be taken to an area hospital for further evaluation<\/p>\n
Chopper 6 overhead as heat overwhelms dozens gathering to see historic locomotive ‘Big Boy’ on July 2, 2026.<\/p>\n
READ MORE | Union Pacific Big Boy 4014 to be on display at the Navy Yard in South Philadelphia <\/a><\/p>\n Large crowds have been gathering to see Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014<\/a>, which is traveling across the country as part of events marking America’s 250th anniversary.<\/p>\n Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014 – World’s Largest Operating Steam Locomotive (Photo: Business Wire)<\/p>\n The locomotive is recognized as the largest operating steam locomotive in the world.<\/p>\n RELATED: Big Boy 4014: World’s largest operating steam locomotive on tour for America 250 <\/a><\/p>\n![\"Union](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/19282455_AP4947305104573456.jpg\"\/)
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